Thane: Hundreds of residents of Rodas Enclave at Hiranandani Estate formed a human chain and staged a silent protest on Sunday, October 4, demanding that the proposed Ring Metro route be restored to its original alignment.

Carrying banners and placards, residents gathered outside the housing complex and opposed the revised alignment, citing safety and access concerns. They stressed that they were not against the Metro project but objected to its proposed route through their residential area.

According to residents, the earlier plan envisaged the Metro corridor passing behind the TCS campus through the Coastal Road alignment. They alleged that the route was subsequently changed, with the Ring Metro now proposed along the road between Rodas Enclave and TCS.

Residents said the revised alignment could significantly affect the 18 multi-storey buildings in the complex. The housing society currently has five main entrances, three of which would have to be closed if the project proceeds as proposed.

Residents are particularly concerned about one of the affected entrances being located near a school. They fear that reducing access points could create serious difficulties during emergency evacuation and hinder the movement of residents in the event of a fire, accident or other disaster.

The protesters urged authorities to reconsider the revised alignment and restore the earlier plan. They said the Ring Metro would benefit the city but maintained that its construction should not compromise residents’ safety and accessibility.

The peaceful demonstration saw strong participation from residents, who urged authorities to address their concerns before work on the revised route progresses.